About the position
The Meter Reader position at the City of Tuscaloosa involves performing essential field work functions related to reading and recording water usage data from various types of meters. This role is crucial for ensuring accurate billing and monitoring of water consumption across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. The Meter Reader will be responsible for locating and reading meters on an assigned route, utilizing a portable computerized meter reading device to record data efficiently. In addition to reading meters, the Meter Reader will also be tasked with cleaning meters, checking for malfunctions, and performing basic repairs. If any issues are detected, the Meter Reader must report these problems to their supervisor and may be required to remove defective meters or install new ones as directed. The role requires the operation of a motor vehicle to conduct meter reading activities, which includes inspecting the vehicle for proper operation and performing minor maintenance as needed. The Meter Reader will also handle administrative tasks such as cutting off delinquent accounts, preparing and processing various forms and reports, and maintaining accurate records. Inspecting visible plumbing for leaks, repairing service lines, and replacing curb stops are also part of the job responsibilities. The position may require conducting special readings to verify any discrepancies in water consumption and communicating effectively with customers and team members via telephone or two-way radio. Overall, the Meter Reader must adhere to quality service standards, maintain good interpersonal relationships with colleagues, and fulfill all essential functions of the job in a timely manner, with or without reasonable accommodations. Regular attendance and a commitment to continuous improvement are also critical components of this role.
Responsibilities
- Locates and reads residential, commercial and industrial water meters on an assigned route.
- Records water meter data utilizing a portable computerized meter reading device.
- Cleans meters and checks for malfunctions; performs basic repairs; reports problems or defects to supervisor.
- Removes defective meters and/or installs new meters as directed.
- Operates a motor vehicle to conduct meter reading activities; inspects assigned vehicle for proper operations; performs minor vehicle maintenance as needed.
- Cuts off delinquent accounts; prepares and/or receives various forms, reports, work orders, or other documentation; completes, processes, and/or forwards as appropriate; maintains records.
- Inspects visible plumbing for water leaks; repairs service line; replaces curb stops.
- Conducts special readings to verify excessively high or low water consumption as required.
- Communicates via telephone and/or two-way radio; provides information; takes and relays messages; responds to requests for service.
- Trims weeds/shrubbery around meter boxes.
- Cleans truck bays.
- Recommends policies and procedures that guide and support the provision of quality services by the Department.
- Incorporates continuous quality improvement principles in day to day activities.
- Maintains good interpersonal relationships with staff, co-workers, and managers.
Requirements
- Ability to read and record data accurately.
- Basic mechanical skills for meter maintenance and repair.
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
- Good communication skills for interacting with the public and team members.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
